K-9 Nora Tracks Suspect, Leads to Apprension at Hawthorne Army Depot

On Nov. 15, 2024, around 9:54 a.m., Mineral County deputies spotted a stolen white Toyota Tacoma with two occupants near mile marker 52 on U.S. Highway 95. When deputies attempted a traffic stop, the driver failed to yield, initiating a pursuit through the town of Hawthorne.

The chase escalated as the vehicle crashed through a fence and entered the Hawthorne Army Depot. The suspect vehicle sped through the depot’s magazines—munitions storage structures—before becoming disabled. The driver then fled on foot into the magazine area, prompting deputies to deploy K-9 Nora, pictured right, who successfully tracked and apprehended the suspect.

Both occupants were taken into custody and booked into the Mineral County Detention Center. Charges include possession of a stolen vehicle, reckless driving, possession of a controlled substance, and driving with a non-resident suspended license, among others.

“This incident highlights the dedication and quick thinking of our deputies and K-9 team,” stated a Mineral County Sheriff’s Office official. “We are proud of the teamwork displayed to bring this dangerous situation to a safe conclusion.”

The Sheriff’s Office commended K-9 Nora and the deputies involved for their efforts in swiftly resolving the pursuit.

Hawthorne Army Depot Magazines (munition storage structures).